Expanded Core Curriculum
What is the Expanded Core Curriculum?
The Expanded Core Curriculum (ECC) provides a framework for instruction in a specialized set of vision-related skills for students who are blind or visually impaired. While students who are blind or visually impaired are expected to follow the same core curriculum as their sighted peers, there are certain areas in which they need specific instruction because of their vision loss. Thus, while all students will be expected to participate in core academic subjects, such as English Language Arts, Math, Science, and History, students with visual impairments should also receive instruction in nine specific areas of the Expanded Core Curriculum.
Compensatory Access
Learning how to acquire, share and process information, including the general education curriculum, without sight or with severely limited vision.
Sensory Efficiency
Using all senses to access information and communication in an efficient manner.
Assistive Technology
Leveraging high-tech devices, such as screen-reading software and refreshable braille keyboards, and low-tech devices, such as white canes and magnifiers, to support outgoing and incoming communication and access one's environment.
Orientation and Mobility
Navigating independently and safely by knowing one’s position relative to other people, objects and places, and getting from place to place safely and efficiently.
Social Interaction
Learning how to read and respond to social situations without the benefit of visual cues.
Self-Determination
Learning how to advocate for one’s own needs, understand strengths and limitations, build confidence and solve problems.
Independent Living
Taking care of oneself as independently as possible, including a broad range of activities such as eating, dressing, money management and household operation.
Recreation and Leisure
Discovering and pursuing interests and extra-curricular activities, often with creative adaptations, and learning how to plan for and engage in social and leisure time.
Career Education
Developing the skills and knowledge needed for success in employment.